Crime Scene Training
Monica A. Stoddard
Prof. Janice Bella
CRJ 320
April 22, 2012

In documenting a crime scene, there are 3 functions or methods that are used to properly document the crime scene. Those methods consist of written notes, crime scene photographs and a diagram or sketches. Consistencies between these 3 functions are very important in order to build, solve a case and later present evidence in court. It is very important to take notes as soon as possible after receiving a call to respond crime scene. It is also important to continue recording information as it is received throughout the investigation. The notes should be written in chronological order and should not include any opinions, analysis or any conclusions regarding the crime. The notes should answer when, where, who, what, how and why. Photographing a crime scene is a permanent way to record the crime scene. It is important to take photos with a camera that has a time stamp, (this is to ensure the originality of a photo). Photos should be taken to reproduce the crime scene in detail. Photographs are used to help preserve the crime scene depending on the weather. Remember a picture is worth a thousand words. A sketch is the most simplistic manner in which to present crime scene layout and measurements. A crime scene sketch is a permanent record containing the size and distance relationship of the crime scene and the physical evidence located at the crime scene. The sketch